Nature & Parks

Nepal is one of the lesser explored countries of Asia. The beauty and natural wonders of the country is unmatched, and whatever be the kind of natural experience you are seeking, chances are you are going to find it in Nepal. As you trek through the refreshing lush green forests in the lap of the Himalayas, lose yourself amidst the beauty of nature. Below are some of the national parks of Nepal.

Annapurna Conservation Area - It is the largest protected area in Nepal and encompasses parts of the Manang, Mustang, Kaski, Myagdi and Lamjung districts. The area is a wild land of mountains, forests, hills and rivers, and is a popular option for trekking.

Chitwan National Park - Nepal’s most popular jungle national park, the Chitwan National Park is easily accessible from both Kathmandu and Pokhara. In the park, you can experience the vivid sides of bird life, gharial crocodiles, deer and elephants, but the major attraction of the park are the one horned rhinoceros.

Bardia National Park - Another frequently visited national park is the Bardia National Park. The park offers the best glimpse of the elusive big cat, and while sightings are certainly not guaranteed, your chances are still good. If you are seeking greater adventures, combine a visit to Bardia with a Karnali River rafting/kayaking trip, as this end near the national park.

Shey Phoksundo National Park - Located in the far western districts of Dolpo and Mugu, the national park houses many of the more popular off the beaten path treks. Much of the park lies in the rain-shadow of the Himalayas, a dry and barren area on the edge of the Tibetan Plateau that has stunning mountain sceneries that markedly contrasts with that of the green lush areas elsewhere in Nepal.

Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve - The one of its kind reserve in Nepal, Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve offer plenty of interests for wildlife enthusiasts. The rare and difficult-to-spot snow leopard can be found here, as can musk deer, blue sheep, red pandas, numerous types of pheasant and other birds. Dhorpatan is located to the west of the Dhaulagiri Range of the Himalaya.

Makalu Barun National Park - The national park is an eastern extension of the Sagarmatha National Park. It is connected to the Qomolangma National Nature Preserve in Tibet, and is the only protected area in the world that has an elevation gain of 8,000 metres within it. The national park boasts of an extraordinarily diverse variety of flora and fauna in the tropical jungle.